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Gyantse

Located at almost 4,000 metres above sea level in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, Gyantse is a small town on an ancient trade route between Tibet and India. The town has a colourful history that includes being the centre of resistance against British invasion in the early 20th century.

Gyantse is famed for its dzong which is one of the most impressive and best preserved in the region. A dzong is a type of fortress that is found throughout Tibet and Bhutan. They traditionally serve as a religious and administrative centre for their region. The Gyantse Dzong was built in the 1400s on a large hill overlooking the high Tibetan plains. It has survived turbulent times, including the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s, and still stands, overlooking the same plains that it has for many centuries.

Another wonderful and spectacular sight is Palcho Monastery. Built in the 1400s by the second Prince of Gyantse, it combines architectural influences from Nepalese, Tibetan and Han styles. Within the monastery is the very famous stupa, in Tibet known as a Kumbum. The Kumbum is thought to be the largest in the Tibetan region, and thus one of the most important.

For natural beauty, nearby at 5020 metres above sea level is the magnificent sight of the gigantic Karola glacier flowing gracefully down the mountain, with the backdrop of giant boulders and cliffs soaring as far as the eye can see.

Due to its political sensitivity, the Tibetan Autonomous Region requires a special permit to visit, which we are very experienced at organizing. Accommodation in Gyantse is basic, but the stunning location more than makes up for this. A night or two in Gyantse is highly recommended – spending time here taking in the sights and the unique, charming atmosphere is a marvelous experience.

Gyantse combines wonderfully with a tailormade tour of the wider Tibet region. Overland travel by road can be long, but the breathtaking views make the journey very pleasurable. No visit to Tibet can be complete without a visit to Lhasa. We would also recommend a visit to Tsedang and Shigatse. All are within reach of each other by road.

The best time of year for a tailormade tour of Tibet is April, May or September, when the weather conditions should be fine. This is also a perfect time to visit the rest of China, meaning that travel in Tibet and the wider Middle Kingdom combines extremely well.

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I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson

Client Testimonials

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
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- Mr David Wallace, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
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- Jaime Benitez, South India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
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- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
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- Redmayne family, Phuket
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- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
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